Time trends and COVID-19 post-pandemic changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior prevalence among Brazilian adults between 2006 and 2021 / Tendências temporais e mudanças pós-pandemia de COVID-19 na prevalência de atividade física e comportamento sedentário em adultos brasileiros entre 2006 e 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze time trends and prevalence of physical activity and sedentary behavior among adults of Brazilian capitals between 2006 and 2021, including the pandemic period. Methods: This is a time-series of cross-sectional surveys based on the National Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey. Trends of sufficient leisure-time physical activity, sufficient physical activity while commuting, insufficient practice of physical activity, and total screen time were estimated by using Prais-Winsten regression. Annual prevalences and time trends were estimated for each indicator by sex, age group and education. Results: For total population, significant time trends were found for leisure-time physical activity (β=0.614) and total screen time (β=1.319). As for prevalence, leisure-time physical activity increased from 29% in 2009 to 39% in 2019, followed by a reduction of 2.3% between 2020 and 2021. Total screen time prevalence increased considerably between 2019 and 2020 (4.7%). Though physical inactivity tended to reduce along the series, its prevalence increased by 3.4% between 2019 and 2021, as well as physical activity while commuting decreased by 3,7% in the same time period. Conclusion: Whereas leisure-time physical activity increased over the years, it is uncertain whether this trend will be the same in the years following COVID-19. Not only did people alter their leisure-time habits, but also there was an increasing dominance of screen time due to the change in work and social patterns. More strategies need to be addressed to tackle physical inactivity and sedentary behavior, and to review the post-pandemic national targets.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as tendências temporais e a prevalência dos indicadores de atividade física e comportamento sedentário em adultos das capitais brasileiras entre 2006 e 2021, incluindo o período de pandemia. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo de série temporal de inquéritos transversais baseado no Sistema de Vigilância Telefônica de Doenças Crônicas. As tendências de atividade física suficiente no lazer, atividade física suficiente no deslocamento, prática insuficiente de atividade física e tempo total de tela foram estimadas por meio da regressão de Prais-Winsten. As tendências temporais e as prevalências anuais foram calculadas por sexo, faixa etária e escolaridade. Resultados: Na população total, foram encontradas tendências temporais significativas para atividade física suficiente no lazer (β=0,614) e tempo total de tela (β=1,319). Quanto à prevalência, a atividade física suficiente no lazer aumentou de 29% em 2009 para 39% em 2019, seguida de redução de 2,3% entre 2020 e 2021. A prevalência do tempo total de tela aumentou consideravelmente entre 2019 e 2020 (4,7%). Embora a inatividade física tendesse a diminuir ao longo da série, sua prevalência aumentou 3,4% entre 2019 e 2021, assim como a atividade física no deslocamento diminuiu 3,7% no mesmo período. Conclusão: Enquanto a atividade física suficiente no lazer aumentou ao longo dos anos, é incerto se essa tendência se manterá nos anos seguintes à COVID-19. Não apenas as pessoas alteraram seus hábitos de lazer, mas também há um domínio crescente do tempo de tela em razão da mudança nos padrões sociais e de trabalho. Mais estratégias precisam ser abordadas para o enfrentamento da inatividade física, do comportamento sedentário e para a revisão das metas nacionais pós-pandemia.

Temporal trends of morbidities, and risk and protective factors for noncommunicable diseases in elderly residents in Brazilian capitals / Tendências temporais de morbidades e fatores de risco e de proteção para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em pessoas idosas residentes nas capitais brasileiras

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the temporal trends of prevalence of morbidities, risk and protection factors for noncommunicable diseases in elderly residents in Brazilian capitals between 2006 and 2021. Methods: A time series study with data from the Surveillance System of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Inquiry. The variables analyzed were: high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, overweight, obesity, consumption of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, fruits and vegetables, and the practice of physical activity. Prais-Winsten regression and Interrupted Time Series from 2006 to 2014 and 2015 to 2021 were used. Results: From 2006 to 2021, for the total elderly population, there was an increase in diabetes (19.2 to 28.4%), alcohol consumption (2.5 to 3.2%), overweight (52.4 to 60.7%) and obesity (16.8 to 21.8%), and a reduction in the prevalence of smokers (9.4 to 7.4%) and in soft drink consumption (17 to 8.7%). By the interrupted series, between 2015 and 2021, there was stability in the prevalence of diabetes, female smokers, overweight among men, obesity in the total and male population, and soft drink consumption. Conclusion: Over the years, there have been changes and worsening in the indicators analyzed, such as an increase in diabetes, alcohol consumption, overweight, and obesity, which reinforces the importance of continuous monitoring and sustainability programs to promote the health, especially in the context of economic crisis, austerity, and COVID-19 pandemic.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar as tendências temporais das prevalências de morbidades e dos fatores de risco e de proteção para as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em pessoas idosas residentes nas capitais brasileiras entre 2006 e 2021. Métodos: Estudo de série temporal com dados do Sistema de Vigilância de Fatores de Risco e Proteção para Doenças Crônicas por Inquérito Telefônico. Analisaram-se as variáveis: hipertensão arterial; diabetes; tabagismo; excesso de peso; obesidade; consumo de bebidas alcoólicas, refrigerantes, frutas e hortaliças; e prática de atividade física. Empregaram-se o modelo de regressão de Prais-Winsten e a séries temporais interrompidas (de 2006 a 2014 e de 2015 a 2021). Resultados: De 2006 a 2021, para a população total de idosos, houve aumento de diabetes (19,2 para 28,4%), do consumo de álcool (2,5 para 3,2%), do dexcesso de peso (52,4 para 60,7%) e da obesidade (16,8 para 21,8%), e redução do tabagismo (9,4 para 7,4%) e consumo de refrigerantes (17,0 para 8,7%). Pelas séries interrompidas, entre 2015 e 2021, houve estabilidade da prevalência de diabetes, fumantes do sexo feminino, excesso de peso nos homens, obesidade na população total e no sexo masculino e consumo de refrigerante. Conclusão: Ao longo dos anos houve mudanças e piora dos indicadores analisados, como aumento de diabetes, do consumo de álcool, do excesso de peso e da obesidade, o que reforça a importância do monitoramento contínuo e da sustentabilidade de programas de promoção da saúde, especialmente no contexto de crise econômica, austeridade e pandemia decorrente da COVID-19.

Use of health services and adherence to social distancing by adults with Noncommunicable Diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brazil, 2020. / Uso dos serviços de saúde e adesão ao distanciamento social por adultos com doenças crônicas na pandemia de COVID-19, Brasil, 2020.

The present study investigates the association between the self-reported diagnosis of noncommunicable disease (NCD) and the adherence to social distancing and the use of health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a cross-sectional study with Brazilian adults who participated in the ConVid- Behavior Survey, conducted online between April 24 and May 24, 2020(n = 45.161). This studyconsidered the following NCDs: diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, heart disease, and cancer, and evaluated the use of health services and the adherence to social distancing, as well as estimated the prevalences and adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR); 33,9% (95% CI: 32,5-35,3) referred to one or more NCD. Individuals with NCDsshowed a greater adherence to intense social distancing (aPR: 1,07;95% CI: 1,03-1,11), sought out health services more often (aPR:1,24; 95% CI:1,11-1,38), and found greater difficultyin scheduling doctor's appointments (aPR:1.52; 95% CI 1,35-1,71), receiving healthcare treatment (APR:1,50;95% CI:1,22-1,84) and medication (APR:2,17;95% CI:1,77-2,67), and performing examinations (APR:1,78;95% CI:1,50-2,10) and scheduled interventions (APR:1,65;95% CI:1,16-2,34). The presence of NCDs was associated with social distancing, seeking out health care, and difficulty in using health services.

Este estudo investiga a associação entre diagnóstico autorreferido de Doença Crônica Não Transmissível (DCNT) e adesão ao distanciamento social e utilização dos serviços de saúde durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Estudo transversal com adultos brasileiros que participaram da ConVid Pesquisa de Comportamentos, realizada de 24 de abril a 24 de maio de 2020, via web (n = 45.161). Considerou as DCNT: diabetes, hipertensão, doença respiratória, doença do coração e câncer. Avaliou a utilização de serviços de saúde e a adesão ao distanciamento social. Estimou as prevalências e razões de prevalências ajustadas (RPa). 33,9% (IC95%: 32,5-35,3) referiu uma ou mais DCNT. Indivíduos com DCNT tiveram maior adesão ao distanciamento social intenso (RPa:1,07; IC95%:1,03-1,11), procuraram mais o serviço de saúde (RPa:1,24; IC95%:1,11-1,38) e tiveram mais dificuldades para marcar consulta (RPa:1,52; IC95%:1,35-1,71), conseguir atendimento de saúde (RPa:1,50; IC95%:1,22-1,84) e medicamentos (RPa:2,17; IC95%:1,77-2,67), realizar exames (RPa:1,78; IC95%:1,50-2,10) e intervenções programadas (RPa:1,65; IC95%:1,16-2,34). A presença de DCNT associou-se à maior adesão ao distanciamento social, procura por atendimento de saúde e dificuldade na utilização dos serviços de saúde.

Smoking among Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The social distancing measures during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in mental suffering among adolescents, leading to risky consumption of psychoactive substances such as tobacco. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the factors associated with tobacco use among adolescents during the COVID-19 social distancing period in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study used data from ConVid Adolescentes survey in Brazil. METHODS: Tobacco use was assessed before and during social distancing. The explanatory variables investigated were sex, age, race/skin color, type of school, maternal education, region of residence, adherence to social restriction measures, number of close friends, sleep quality during the pandemic, mood, passive smoking, use of alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, sedentary behavior, and physical activity. A logistic regression model was used for the data analysis. RESULTS: Tobacco use by adolescents did not change during the pandemic (from 2.58% to 2.41%). There was a higher chance of tobacco use among adolescents aged between 16 and 17 years, self-reported black ones, residing in the South and Southeast regions, reported feeling sad and loneliness, had sleeping problems that worsened, were using alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, and were passive smokers at home. Adolescents whose mothers had completed high school or higher, had strict social restrictions, and increased their physical activity during the pandemic had a lower chance of tobacco use. CONCLUSION: Tobacco uses during the COVID-19 pandemic was higher in vulnerable groups, such as black adolescents and those with mental suffering.

Alcohol consumption among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, ConVid Adolescents – Behavior Research O consumo de bebidas alcoólicas entre adolescentes durante a pandemia de COVID-19, ConVid Adolescentes — Pesquisa de Comportamentos

Objective: To describe the prevalence of alcohol consumption before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and to analyze the factors associated with this behavior during the period of social distancing among Brazilian adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study using data from the ConVid Adolescents survey, carried out via the Internet between June and September 2020. The prevalence of alcohol consumption before and during the pandemic, as well as association with sociodemographic variables, mental health, and lifestyle were estimated. A logistic regression model was used to assess associated factors. Results: 9,470 adolescents were evaluated. Alcohol consumption decreased from 17.70% (95%CI 16.64–18.85) before the pandemic to 12.80% (95%CI 11.85–13.76) during the pandemic. Alcohol consumption was associated with the age group of 16 and 17 years (OR=2.9;95%CI 1.08–1.53), place of residence in the South (OR=1.82;95%CI 1.46–2.27) and Southeast regions (OR=1.33;95%CI 1.05–1.69), having three or more close friends (OR=1.78;95%CI 1.25–2.53), reporting worsening sleep problems during the pandemic (OR=1.59;95%CI 1.20–2.11), feeling sad sometimes (OR=1,83;95%CI 1,40–2,38) and always (OR=2.27;95%CI 1.70–3.05), feeling always irritated (OR=1,60;95%CI 1,14–2,25), being a smoker (OR=13,74;95%CI 8.63–21.87) and a passive smoker (OR=1.76;95%CI 1.42–2.19). Strict adherence to social distancing was associated with lower alcohol consumption (OR=0.40;95%CI 0.32–0.49). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decrease in consumption of alcoholic beverages by Brazilian adolescents, which was influenced by sociodemographic and mental health factors, adherence to social restriction measures and lifestyle in this period. Managers, educators, family and the society must be involved in the articulation of Public Policies to prevent alcohol consumption.

Time trends and COVID-19 post-pandemic changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior prevalence among Brazilian adults between 2006 and 2021 Tendências temporais e mudanças pós-pandemia de COVID-19 na prevalência de atividade física e comportamento sedentário em adultos brasileiros entre 2006 e 2021

Objective: To analyze time trends and prevalence of physical activity and sedentary behavior among adults of Brazilian capitals between 2006 and 2021, including the pandemic period. Methods: This is a time-series of cross-sectional surveys based on the National Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey. Trends of sufficient leisure-time physical activity, sufficient physical activity while commuting, insufficient practice of physical activity, and total screen time were estimated by using Prais-Winsten regression. Annual prevalences and time trends were estimated for each indicator by sex, age group and education. Results: For total population, significant time trends were found for leisure-time physical activity (β=0.614) and total screen time (β=1.319). As for prevalence, leisure-time physical activity increased from 29% in 2009 to 39% in 2019, followed by a reduction of 2.3% between 2020 and 2021. Total screen time prevalence increased considerably between 2019 and 2020 (4.7%). Though physical inactivity tended to reduce along the series, its prevalence increased by 3.4% between 2019 and 2021, as well as physical activity while commuting decreased by 3,7% in the same time period. Conclusion: Whereas leisure-time physical activity increased over the years, it is uncertain whether this trend will be the same in the years following COVID-19. Not only did people alter their leisure-time habits, but also there was an increasing dominance of screen time due to the change in work and social patterns. More strategies need to be addressed to tackle physical inactivity and sedentary behavior, and to review the post-pandemic national targets.

Temporal trends of morbidities, and risk and protective factors for noncommunicable diseases in elderly residents in Brazilian capitals Tendências temporais de morbidades e fatores de risco e de proteção para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis em pessoas idosas residentes nas capitais brasileiras

Objective: To analyze the temporal trends of prevalence of morbidities, risk and protection factors for noncommunicable diseases in elderly residents in Brazilian capitals between 2006 and 2021. Methods: A time series study with data from the Surveillance System of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Inquiry. The variables analyzed were: high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, overweight, obesity, consumption of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, fruits and vegetables, and the practice of physical activity. Prais-Winsten regression and Interrupted Time Series from 2006 to 2014 and 2015 to 2021 were used. Results: From 2006 to 2021, for the total elderly population, there was an increase in diabetes (19.2 to 28.4%), alcohol consumption (2.5 to 3.2%), overweight (52.4 to 60.7%) and obesity (16.8 to 21.8%), and a reduction in the prevalence of smokers (9.4 to 7.4%) and in soft drink consumption (17 to 8.7%). By the interrupted series, between 2015 and 2021, there was stability in the prevalence of diabetes, female smokers, overweight among men, obesity in the total and male population, and soft drink consumption. Conclusion: Over the years, there have been changes and worsening in the indicators analyzed, such as an increase in diabetes, alcohol consumption, overweight, and obesity, which reinforces the importance of continuous monitoring and sustainability programs to promote the health, especially in the context of economic crisis, austerity, and COVID-19 pandemic.

Factors associated with the incidence and worsening of back pain during the first wave of COVID-19 in Brazil. / Fatores associados à incidência e à piora do problema de coluna durante a primeira onda da COVID-19 no Brasil.

The article aims to estimate the incidence and worsening of back pain (BP) during the first wave of COVID-19 in Brazil, as well as to investigate demographic, socioeconomic factors and associated changes in living conditions. ConVid - Behavior Research, applied between April and May 2020, was used as data source. The number and distribution of respondents who developed BP and those who had a worsening of the preexisting problem, their 95% confidence intervals and Pearson's Chi-square test were estimated. The odds ratio of developing BP or worsening a preexisting problem was also estimated using multiple logistic regression models. Pre-existing BP was reported by 33.9% (95%CI 32.5-35.3) of respondents and more than half (54.4%; 95%CI 51.9-56.9) had worsened. The cumulative incidence of BP in the first wave of the pandemic was 40.9% (95%CI 39.2-42.7). Being a woman, the perceived increase in housework and the frequent feeling of sadness or depression were associated with both outcomes. Socioeconomic factors were not associated with any of outcome. The high incidence and worsening of BP during the first wave reveal the need for studies in more recent periods, given the long duration of the pandemic.

O artigo tem como objetivo estimar a incidência e o agravamento do problema de coluna (PC) durante a primeira onda da COVID-19 no Brasil, bem como investigar os fatores demográficos, socioeconômicos e as mudanças nas condições de vida associadas. Utilizou-se a ConVid - Pesquisa de Comportamentos, realizada entre abril e maio de 2020, como fonte de dados. Estimou-se o número e a distribuição dos entrevistados que desenvolveram PC e a dos que tiveram agravamento no problema preexistente, seus intervalos de 95% de confiança e o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson. Estimou-se também a razão de chance de desenvolver PC ou ter piora de problema preexistente por meio de modelos de regressão logística múltipla. O PC preexistente foi reportado por 33,9% (IC95% 32,5-35,3) dos entrevistados e mais da metade (54,4%; IC95% 51,9-56,9) teve piora do quadro. A incidência cumulativa de PC na primeira onda da pandemia foi de 40,9% (IC95% 39,2-42,7). Ser mulher, o aumento percebido do trabalho doméstico e o sentimento frequente de tristeza ou depressão foram associados a ambos os desfechos. Os fatores socioeconômicos não foram associados a nenhum dos desfechos. A alta incidência e agravamento do PC durante a primeira onda revelam a necessidade de estudos em períodos mais recentes, dada a longa duração da pandemia.

Racial disparity in excess mortality in Brazil during COVID-19 times.

We evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on excess mortality by race/skin colour in Brazil, between epidemiological weeks 12 and 50 of 2020. We compared the 2020 point estimate and the expected point estimate applying 2019 mortality rates to the 2020 population. There was an excess of 187 002 deaths (+20.2%) compared to the expected. Excess mortality was 26.3% (23.3-29.3%) among blacks/browns compared to 15.1% (14.1-16.1%) among whites (58.9% of excess among black/browns). Age-standardized rates increased from 377 to 419/100 000 among blacks/browns compared to 328 to 398/100 000 in whites, resulting in 9% relative risk. Excess mortality in Brazil depicts a considerable gap, with increased mortality in all age groups in the black/brown population.

Mental health of Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We aimed to assess the factors associated with frequent sadness and nervousness in Brazilian adolescents, during the Covid-19 pandemic, in 9470 adolescents (aged 12-17 years), interviewed from June 27 to September 17, 2020. Prevalences and prevalence ratios were estimated according to socio-demographic variables and factors related to family, school, friends, and health. Brazilian adolescents often felt sad (32.4%) and nervous (48.7%). Higher prevalences of these feelings were related to: being female; aged 15-17 year; from families with financial difficulties; having learned little or nothing with remote education; missing friends; having few friends; family disagreements; having regular/bad health before the pandemic; and worsened health and sleep during the pandemic. Higher prevalence of nervousness was also found in adolescents who worked before the pandemic and those who reported lack of concentration and not knowing if they had COVID-19. Sadness and nervousness in Brazilian adolescents is high and the need for action by the government, schools, health services, and parents to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the physical and mental health of adolescents. Special attention must be paid to adolescents with previous health problems and those belonging to the most socially vulnerable population.

The COVID-19 pandemic and changes in eating habits of Brazilian adolescents.

Introduction: The social distancing imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic influenced lifestyle and modified dietary patterns. Our objective was to evaluate the consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV), and ultra-processed foods (UPF), before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to identify the sociodemographic factors associated. Methods: This study used data from the "Convid Adolescents", a survey on health behaviors that were collected through an online questionnaire self-completed by 9.470 adolescents between 12 and 17 years of age during the pandemic in Brazil in 2020. Individuals were invited to participate through a chain-sampling procedure called "virtual snowballing". Information about FV, and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic period were reported. The independent variables used were sex, age group, race/color of skin, kind of school, education level of the mother, region of Brazil, financial difficulties during the pandemic, food insecurity, and social restrictions. Logistic regression models were used. Results: There was a reduction in the low consumption of FV (83.5% to 80.3%) and there was no significant difference in the high consumption of UPF (38.9% to 38.1%) before and during the pandemic. The incidence of low consumption of FV and high consumption of UPF during the pandemic was 20% and 13.8%, respectively. Girls, private school adolescents, who reported having food insecurity and financial difficulties during the pandemic were the most affected subgroups. Conclusions: Despite little change in the prevalence of FV and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic, the incidence of high consumption of UPF and low FV consumption was high, and it identified in specific population subgroups.

COVID-19 mortality in Brazil, 2020-21: consequences of the pandemic inadequate management.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic brought countless challenges to public health and highlighted the Brazilian health system vulnerabilities in facing the emergency. In this article, we analyze data on COVID-19-related deaths in 2020-21 to show the epidemic consequences in Brazil. METHODS: The Mortality Information System and the Live Birth Information System were the primary information sources. We used population estimates in 2020-21 to calculate COVID-19 specific mortality rates by age, sex, and educational level. Considering the total number of COVID-19 deaths in 2020-21, the COVID-19 proportional mortality (%) was estimated for each age group and sex. A graph of the daily number of deaths from January 2020 to December 2021 by sex was elaborated to show the temporal evolution of COVID-19 deaths in Brazil. In addition, four indicators related to COVID-19 mortality were estimated: infant mortality rate (IMR); maternal mortality ratio (MMR); number and rate of orphans due to mother's COVID-19 death; the average number of years lost. RESULTS: The overall COVID-19 mortality rate was 14.8 (/10,000). The mortality rates increase with age and show a decreasing gradient with higher schooling. The rate among illiterate people was 38.8/10,000, three times higher than a college education. Male mortality was 31% higher than female mortality. COVID-19 deaths represented 19.1% of all deaths, with the highest proportions in the age group of 40-59 years. The average number of years lost due to COVID-19 was 19 years. The MMR due to COVID-19 was 35.7 per 100,000 live births (LB), representing 37.4% of the overall MMR. Regarding the number of orphans due to COVID-19, we estimated that 40,830 children under 18 lost their mothers during the epidemic, with an orphans' rate of 7.5/10,000 children aged 0-17 years. The IMR was 11.7 per 1000 LB, with 0.2 caused by COVID-19. The peak of COVID-19 deaths occurred in March 2021, reaching almost 4000 COVID-19 deaths per day, higher than the average number of deaths per day from all causes in 2019. CONCLUSIONS: The delay in adopting public health measures necessary to control the epidemic has exacerbated the spread of the disease, resulting in several avoidable deaths.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admissions for cardiovascular diseases in a large Brazilian urban center.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a great impact on the behavior of individuals and the organization of health systems. This study analyzed the COVID-19 pandemic's effect on public hospitalizations for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in a large city in Brazil, Belo Horizonte, MG, with approximately 2.5 million inhabitants. METHODS: In a time-series analysis, this study used administrative data from the national "Hospital Information System" from 2010 to February 2020 to estimate the expected number of hospitalizations for CVD by month during the COVID-19 pandemic in Belo Horizonte in 2020 using the Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average model. For CVD, this study compared the expected number of hospital admissions, intensive care use, deaths during hospitalization, and mean length of stay with the observed number during the period. RESULTS: There were 6,517 hospitalizations for CVD from March to December 2020, a decrease of 16.3% (95% CI: 4.7-25.3) compared to the projected. The number of intensive care hospitalizations for CVD fell 24.1% (95% CI 13-32.7). The number of deaths also decreased (17.4% [80% CI: 0 - 0.30]), along with the reduction in hospitalizations, as did the length of stay for CVD hospitalizations. These reductions, however, were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalizations for CVD were 16.3% lower than expected in a large Brazilian city, possibly due to the fear of getting infected or going to hospitals. Public campaigns informing how to proceed in case of CVD show that prompt urgent attention is essential to mitigate the indirect effects of the pandemic on CVD.

Factors affecting Brazilians' self-rated health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is a cross-sectional study investigating the factors affecting brazilians' self-rated health during the COVID-19 pandemic, based on data from the web-based behavior survey. Carried out from April 24 to May 24, 2020, the survey recruited participants by a chain sampling procedure. Its outcome was the worsening of self-rated health during the pandemic. Statistical analysis was based on a hierarchical model of determination. Logistic regression models were used to test the associations between sociodemographic characteristics, pre-existing health conditions, lifestyle indicators and intensity of social restraint measures, and biological and psychological issues during the pandemic. From the total sample of 45,161 participants, 29.4% reported worsening of health state during this period. After adjusting for hierarchical distal factors, the health problems mostly associated with worsening health state were: bad self-rated health (adjusted OR = 4.35, p < 0.001), health care seeking for mental health problem (adjusted OR = 3.95, p < 0.001), and for COVID-19 (adjusted OR = 3.60, p < 0.001). People who experienced sleep problems, worsening of back pain, depression and at least one flu symptom during the pandemic were twice as likely to report worsening of health status. Sedentary and eating behaviors and adherence to social distancing measures showed significant correlation with the outcome. There exists a relation between social, biological, and psychological factors, mediated by lifestyles and variables pertaining to confinement. Altogether, these factors have negatively affected self-rated health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil.

Higher mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in socially vulnerable areas in Belo Horizonte: implications for vaccine prioritization. / Maior mortalidade durante a pandemia de COVID-19 em áreas socialmente vulneráveis em Belo Horizonte: implicações para a priorização da vacinação.

OBJECTIVE: To assess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic according to social vulnerability by areas of Belo Horizonte (BH), aiming at strategies for vaccination. METHODS: Ecological study with mortality analysis according to census tracts classified by the Health Vulnerability Index, a composite indicator that includes socioeconomic and sanitation variables. Deaths by natural causes and by COVID-19 were obtained from the "Mortality Information System", between the 10th and 43rd epidemiological weeks (EW) of 2020. Excess mortality was calculated in a time series model, considering observed and expected deaths per EW, between 2015 and 2019, per census tracts. Mortality rates (MR) were calculated and age-standardized using population estimates from the 2010 census, by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). RESULTS: Excess mortality in BH was 16.1% (n = 1,524): 11, 18.8 and 17.3% in low, intermediate and high vulnerability areas, respectively. The differences between observed and expected age-standardized MR by natural causes were equal to 59/100,000 inhabitants in BH, increasing from 31 to 77 and 95/100,000 inhabitants in the areas of low, intermediate and high vulnerability, respectively. There was an aging gradient in MR by COVID-19, ranging from 4 to 611/100,000 inhabitants among individuals aged 20-39 years and 75+ years. The COVID-19 MR per 100,000 older adults (60+ years) was 292 in BH, increasing from 179 to 354 and 476, in low, intermediate and high vulnerability areas, respectively. CONCLUSION: Inequalities in mortality, particularly among older adults, combined with the limited supply of doses, demonstrate the importance of prioritizing socially vulnerable areas during vaccination against COVID-19.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a mortalidade por áreas de Belo Horizonte (BH) durante a pandemia de COVID-19 conforme a vulnerabilidade social, visando a uma estratégia de vacinação. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico com análise de mortalidade, segundo setores censitários classificados pelo índice de vulnerabilidade da saúde, composto de indicadores de saneamento e socioeconômicos. Óbitos por causas naturais e COVID-19 foram obtidos do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade, entre a 10ª e a 43ª semanas epidemiológicas (SE) de 2020. Calculou-se o excesso de mortalidade por modelo de série temporal, considerando-se as mortes observadas por SE entre 2015 e 2019, por setor censitário. Taxas de mortalidade (TM) foram calculadas e padronizadas por idade com base em estimativas populacionais do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). RESULTADOS: Houve 16,1% (n = 1.524) de excesso de mortalidade em BH: 11, 18,8 e 17,3% nas áreas de baixa, média e elevada vulnerabilidade, respectivamente. As diferenças entre TM observadas e esperadas por causas naturais, padronizadas por idade, foi igual a 59/100 mil habitantes em BH, aumentando de 31 para 77 e 95/100 mil, nas áreas de baixa, média e elevada vulnerabilidade, respectivamente. Houve gradiente de aumento com a idade nas TM por COVID-19, variando de 4 a 611/100 mil habitantes entre as idades de 20-39 anos e 75+ anos. A TM por COVID-19 por 100 mil idosos (60+ anos) foi igual a 292, aumentando de 179 para 354 e 476 nos setores de baixa, média e elevada vulnerabilidade, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: Desigualdades na mortalidade, mesmo entre idosos, aliadas à baixa oferta de doses, demonstram a importância de priorizar áreas socialmente vulneráveis durante a vacinação contra COVID-19.

Associations of Sociodemographic Factors and Health Behaviors with the Emotional Well-Being of Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil.

This cross-sectional study utilizes data from a nationwide web-based survey aimed to identify the factors affecting the emotional well-being of Brazilian adolescents aged 12-17 during the period of school closures and confinement. Data collection took place from 27 June to 17 September 2020. We used the "virtual snowball" sampling method, and students from private and public schools were included. A total of 9470 adolescents were analyzed. A hierarchical logistic regression model was used to find the factors associated with reporting at least two of three self-reported problems-sadness, irritability, and sleep problems. The main proximal factor was loneliness (AdjOR = 8.12 p < 0.001). Problems related to school closures also played an important role. Regular intake of fruits and vegetables, as well as physical activity, demonstrated a positive influence on emotional well-being, while excessive screen time (AdjOR = 2.05, p < 0.001) and alcohol consumption negatively affected outcomes (AdjOR = 1.73, p < 0.001). As for distal variables, less affluent adolescents were the most affected, and males reported fewer emotional problems than females. Uncertainty regarding the disease in a context of socioeconomic vulnerability, together with rises in unhealthy behaviors and isolation from their immediate social circles, have negatively affected adolescents' emotional status throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Noncommunicable diseases and changes in lifestyles during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. / Doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e mudanças nos estilos de vida durante a pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil.

OBJECTIVE: To compare lifestyle changes during the COVID-19 pandemic according to the presence or absence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in Brazilian adults. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, using data from the ConVid survey, between April and May 2020. The following variables were evaluated: lifestyle and presence of one or more NCDs (diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, heart disease, and cancer). Sociodemographic characteristics were used as adjustment. Relative frequencies and confidence intervals (CI) of 95% of the explanatory variables were calculated before and during the pandemic. For the comparison of groups, with or without NCDs, crude and adjusted (PRadj) prevalence ratios were estimated by Poisson regression. RESULTS: There was a reduction in physical activity (60% in those without NCDs and 58% in those with NCDs) and in vegetable consumption (10.8% in those without NCDs and 12.7% in those with NCDs). On the other hand, there was an increase in the time spent watching television and on screens of computer/tablet (302% and 43.5% in those without NCDs and 196.5% and 30.6% with NCDs, respectively); consumption of frozen meals (43.6% in those without NCDs and 53.7% with NCDs), snacks (42.3% without NCDs and 31.2% with NCDs), and chocolate (14.8% without NCDs). During the pandemic, patients with NCDs were less active (PRadj = 0.77; 95%CI 0.65 - 0.92), had greater habit of watching TV (PRadj = 1.16; 95%CI 1.08 - 1.26), and consumed less vegetables (PRadj = 0.88; 95%CI 0.81 - 0.96). CONCLUSION: It was evident that adults with NCDs had their lifestyles more altered during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJETIVO: Comparar as mudanças de estilos de vida durante a pandemia COVID-19, segundo a presença ou não de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT) em adultos brasileiros. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, com dados da pesquisa ConVid - Pesquisa de Comportamentos, realizada entre abril e maio de 2020. Avaliaram-se as variáveis estilo de vida e presença de uma ou mais DCNT (diabetes, hipertensão, doença respiratória, doença do coração e câncer). As características sociodemográficas foram usadas como ajuste. Calcularam-se as frequências relativas e os intervalos de confiança (IC) de 95% das variáveis antes da e durante a pandemia. Para a comparação de grupos, sem ou com DCNT, estimaram-se as prevalências e razões de prevalência bruta e ajustada (RPa) utilizando a regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS: Houve redução da prática de atividade física (60% nos sem DCNT e 58% nos com DCNT) e do consumo de hortaliças (10,8% nos sem DCNT e 12,7% nos com DCNT). Verificou-se aumento no tempo de uso de televisão e computador/tablet (302 e 43,5% nos sem DCNT e 196,5 e 30,6% nos com DCNT, respectivamente); consumo de congelados (43,6% nos sem DCNT e 53,7% com DCNT), salgadinhos (42,3% sem DCNT e 31,2% com DCNT) e chocolate (14,8% sem DCNT). Durante a pandemia, portadores de DCNT apresentaram menor prática de atividade física suficiente (RPa = 0,77; IC95% 0,65 - 0,92), maior hábito de assistir à televisão (RPa = 1,16; IC95% 1,08 - 1,26) e menor consumo de hortaliças (RPa = 0,88; IC95% 0,81 - 0,96). CONCLUSÃO: Evidenciou-se que adultos com DCNT tiveram seus estilos de vida mais alterados durante a pandemia de COVID-19.

Effect of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) on the sleep of Brazilians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases (CNCDs) on the onset or increase in sleep problems during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The role of the report of sadness or nervousness during the pandemic was also evaluated as a mediator of this association. Data from a behavior survey during COVID-19, conducted in Brazil with 45,161 people (18 years old or older), from April 24 to May 24, 2020, were used. The outcome variable was the onset or increase in sleep problems, and the exposure variable was the presence of CNCDs. The adjusted Odds Ratio of the association between CNCDs and sleep was estimated, and a mediation analysis was performed to test the effect of the report of sadness or nervousness on this association, using the Karlson Holm Breen method. The increase in sleep problems was reported by 44.9% of the population, and 33.9% reported at least one CNCD. The chance of sleep problems was higher among people with diabetes (1.34; 1.05-1.71), hypertension (1.26; 1.06-1.50), and with coronary heart diseases (1.36; 1.13-1.65) or respiratory diseases (1.42; 1.04-1.93). Compared to people without CNCDs, individuals with at least one CNCD had a 36% greater chance of impaired sleep (1.36; 1.19-1.55). The report of sadness or nervousness explained 45.1% of the association between CNCD and sleep. Our findings alert us to care for the emotional state and sleep of chronic patients during the waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, and indicate the need for sleep monitoring in this population.

Decentralized COVID-19 measures in Brazil were ineffective to protect people with diabetes.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: COVID-19 severity and mortality are elevated in individuals with diabetes. During the pandemic, interventions recommended globally for people with diabetes were to keep blood glucose on target whilst staying at home to curb the spread of the virus. In Brazil, similar measures were proposed. The aim of our observational study was to assess whether these measures achieved their objectives. METHODS: An anonymous and untraceable survey was shared from April 22nd to May 4th. States with more than 30 respondents were included in the analysis and Fisher's exact test was performed to identify associations, with p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Type 1 diabetes and female participants were prevalent, 60.76% and 76.12% respectively. 10 out of 26 states were included, in addition to the Federal District (1562 responses). Only in three states (Bahia, Goiás and Pernambuco) less than 50% of the respondents experienced higher glycemia or higher variability during the pandemic. Goiás state, where almost half of the respondents (49.12%) have private insurance, presented the highest percentage of individuals receiving medicines for three months (35.48%) and one of the lowest percentages of blood glucose deterioration (47.17%). In the large states of Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, consultations and/or lab exams were postponed by 37.14%, 34.33% and 40.88%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The decentralized measures implemented by states in Brazil left most people with diabetes unprotected. Many were forced to venture outside to collect or to purchase their medical supplies monthly and reported increased glycemic levels and/or variability.

Changes in Brazilians' socioeconomic and health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. / Mudanças nas condições socioeconômicas e de saúde dos brasileiros durante a pandemia de COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: To describe changes in socioeconomic and health conditions of Brazilians during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional study with data from a web-based behavioral survey carried out from April 24 to May 24, 2020, with 45,161 participants recruited by the chain sampling method. A descriptive analysis of the survey topics was performed: adherence to social restriction measures, diagnosis of the new coronavirus, work situation and income, difficulties in routine activities, presence of comorbidities, psychological issues, and access to health services. Prevalence and respective 95% confidence intervals were estimated. RESULTS: Approximately 74% of Brazilians adhered to social restrictions. As for flu symptoms, 28.1% reported having at least one flu symptom, but only 5.9% underwent testing for COVID-19. Regarding the socioeconomic impact, 55.1% reported a decrease in family income, and 7.0% were left without any income; 25.8% of the people lost their jobs, with the group of informal workers being the most affected (50.6%). As for health conditions, 29.4% reported worsening of health status; 45%, having sleep problems; 40% frequently presented feelings of sadness, and 52.5%, of anxiety; 21.7% sought health care, and, among them, 13.9% did not get care. CONCLUSION: The findings show the importance of controlling the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, to mitigate the adverse effects on the socioeconomic and health conditions related to social restriction measures.

OBJETIVO: Descrever as mudanças nas condições socioeconômicas e de saúde dos brasileiros durante a pandemia de COVID-19. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com dados de pesquisa de comportamentos realizada pela internet de 24 de abril a 24 de maio de 2020 com 45.161 participantes recrutados por amostragem em cadeia. Foi feita uma análise descritiva de temas abordados na pesquisa: adesão às medidas de restrição social, diagnóstico do novo coronavírus, situação de trabalho e rendimentos, dificuldades nas atividades de rotina, presença de comorbidades, estado de ânimo e acesso aos serviços de saúde. Foram estimados as prevalências e os intervalos de 95% de confiança. RESULTADOS: Aproximadamente 75% dos brasileiros aderiram à restrição social. Quanto aos sintomas de gripe, 28,1% relatou ter apresentado algum sintoma, mas apenas 5,9% realizou teste para COVID-19. Em relação à situação socioeconômica, 55,1% relatou diminuição do rendimento familiar, e 7% ficou sem rendimento; 25,8% dos indivíduos ficaram sem trabalhar, sendo o grupo de trabalhadores informais o mais afetado (50,6%). Quanto às condições de saúde, 29,4% avaliou que a sua saúde piorou; 45% teve problemas no sono, 40% apresentou, frequentemente, sentimento de tristeza e 52,5% de ansiedade/nervosismo; 21,7% procurou serviço de saúde e, entre estes, 13,9% não conseguiu atendimento. CONCLUSÃO: Os achados mostram a importância do controle da pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil, para mitigar os efeitos adversos na situação socioeconômica e nas condições de saúde relacionados às medidas de restrição social.